Another Word for Congratulations – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word congratulations is used to express praise for someone’s achievement or good fortune. To make your English more varied and to suit different situations, learning another word for congratulations will help. Using synonyms allows you to convey different levels of formality or enthusiasm.
What is Another Word for Congratulations?
A great synonym for congratulations is praise. Congratulations is an expression of pleasure at the success or good fortune of someone. Praise means the expression of approval or admiration for someone or something. While congratulations is specifically used for achievements, praise is a general term for expressing admiration. Learning words like praise helps you express general approval.
Meaning of “Congratulations”
Congratulations means an expression of pleasure at the success or good fortune of someone.
We use it when someone has achieved a goal, won a competition, or reached a milestone (like a birthday or marriage). For example, “Congratulations on your new job!”
Synonyms for “Congratulations”
Here are some common ways to say congratulations:
- Praise: Expression of approval or admiration. A common, general alternative.
- Kudos: Praise and honor received for an achievement. A Greek-derived word often used informally to mean “good job.”
- Acclaim: Enthusiastic and public praise. Used for major or public successes.
- Felicitations: Expressions of pleasure or good wishes on a special occasion. A very formal and often slightly old-fashioned alternative.
- Cheers: Used to express good wishes or approval. A very casual, informal alternative (often used as an interjection).
Example Sentences
- The entire team deserves praise for their dedication and hard work.
- The chef earned serious kudos for his innovative new menu.
- The author received international acclaim for her novel.
- The mayor sent a letter of felicitations to the newly married couple.
- “Cheers to the winner of the race!” we all shouted.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “Did you hear? Mia won the scholarship!”
David: “Wow, that’s great news! Please send her my congratulations.”
Sam: “I will! She worked hard for it.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: I want to congratulations you. (The word is a noun, not a verb.)
✅ Do say: I want to congratulate you. (Use the verb form, or: I offer my congratulations to you.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The crowd gave the performers a standing ovation, showing their __________ for the spectacular show.” (Answer: Acclaim – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to enthusiastic and public praise for a performance or achievement.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for congratulations in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for congratulations and practicing synonyms like praise and kudos will help you express approval and good wishes clearly. Keep learning—your vocabulary is growing impressively!
